Social Media Tips : Why Should I Help You?

When the clock struck midnight on January 1st, I began running. It was a 5k run in Philadelphia, along the Schuylkill River, to be more specific.

During this run, I passed a homeless man. Rather than running past him, I stopped. I gave him $100.

Later that day, I stopped to think in greater detail about that incident.

What was it that compelled me to engage him?

I think the answer to that question, in this case, should be fairly obvious.

The night was cold and rainy. No person should be outside and homeless, regardless of how they got there.

How does this story relate to my thoughts on many folks on Twitter?

Before I continue, please understand I am in no way making light of the homeless. I’m simply offering background as to what inspired the following thought:

Many individuals all around the social media world are simply asking for handouts.

Think about that for a second.

How many people do their best to be placed prominently in front of you, but really do very little to offer a value proposition?

How many individuals clamor daily about social media strategies, and the need for engagement, yet fail to offer an answer to the simple question of why you should contribute to their success?

I find more and more redundancy invading my personal space.

Less substance, less value, less originality, more noise.

While there is overwhelming concern about those that are not participating in social media ‘correctly’, there is a disproportionate lack of concern for those that are considered social media ‘geniuses’ and really offer minimal value.

If you’re going to be successful long term using social media, you must be certain that your product can back up your mouth.

With that in mind, follow along and below you’ll find a small list with tips to help you, or your product, offer a compelling value proposition.

10 Ways to Translate Social Media Success into Real World Success

1. Represent yourself, or your product, honestly.

While you may be able to lure people to you by appearing to be something you’re not, it leaves a bad taste.

2. Impact people in real life.

Until you leave a tangible impression on someone, keep in mind that you very well may be an untrusted, tiny little avatar just like everyone else.

3. View yourself as others view you.

Try to understand that people who don’t know you will view you exactly how you represent yourself. It may not be who, or what, you actually are, but it’s the virtual reality you must understand.

4. Be respectful of others.

Being respectful of others does not mean being afraid to unleash an ‘f-bomb’, if that’s who you are. Attacking others publicly is unnecessary and cowardly. Expressing yourself, however you see fit, is human. As long as you understand how your emotional outbursts will impact how you are viewed, it’s ok to let them fly.

5. Be unique.

The world has enough of the same. Be yourself, and you’ll be unique. If being yourself is not a good option, consider that a much deeper problem.

6. Don’t follow the pack.

The pack is the epitome of mediocrity. Strive to lead them, not be one of them.

7. Embrace your competitive advantages.

Just as it’s acceptable to recognize flaws, don’t be afraid to celebrate your assets. There is nothing wrong with being objective about yourself when it may be positive.

8. Listen to feedback and improve.

Don’t view criticism as an attack. View it as an opportunity to improve, or at least something to consider.

9. Stand your ground.

If you believe you are right, and have valid reasons for believing it, don’t back down to opinions.

10. Stay consistent with whatever path you choose.

People will begin to know you for what you appear to be. Changing yourself mid-stream will cause them to feel deceived or tricked. This goes along with being yourself.

These are only 10 ways to help make yourself, or your product, more attractive to the social media community. If you have others, please feel free to comment below.

Matt Leonard currently directs SEO, SEM and Revenue Management for Cruise Critic, the world’s largest cruise site and part of the Trip Advisor Media Group. You can follow Matt Leonard on Twitter to keep up with his updates.